Coastal Windows & Exteriors (CWE) of Beverly, Massachusetts, has announced the completion of its fifth Roof for Heroes donation, providing a free GAF roofing system to Marine Corps veteran Lenny Szrlong at his Middleborough home. The program, launched in 2020, reflects the company's dedication to supporting those who have served the nation.
“This initiative holds dear to our hearts and mission as a company,” said Stephanie Vanderbilt, Owner of Coastal Windows & Exteriors. “Providing shelter means making a promise — a promise of protection and security. Donating a free GAF roofing system is a great way to keep that promise, as its layers of high-quality protection work together to keep the home and the people inside safe from the elements.”
The energy-efficient roofing installation features America's number one shingle brand, offering multi-layered defense against weather damage. Winter roof replacement provides leak prevention, guards against moisture penetration, minimizes attic heat buildup, and prevents ice dam formation during frigid New England winters. This year, the Farmers' Almanac is forecasting a “Chill, Snow, Repeat” pattern, indicating a cold and snowy winter season.
Szrlong expressed his gratitude for the donation. “I'd like to thank Coastal Windows & Exteriors for this incredible opportunity,” said Szrlong. “As a Marine Corps veteran and lifelong Massachusetts resident, it warms my heart that there are companies like this who help local veterans through affirmative action and tangible results. Most contractors I've dealt with didn't know their product and only wanted a sale. Theo and the rest of the team at Coastal proved they were different. And for that I am grateful!”
The Roof for Heroes program addresses a critical need for veterans across the region. Many service members face financial hardship after military service, making major home repairs impossible without assistance. A failing roof can lead to structural damage, health hazards from mold and moisture, and significant energy loss. Poor roofing performance accounts for up to 25% of a home's total energy loss.
A properly installed roofing system from Coastal Windows & Exteriors regulates attic temperatures and maintains consistent heating in New England homes. The timing of this donation is critical, as electricity rates have increased 31% since 2021. Over the past year alone, National Grid rates increased 13% and natural gas rates jumped 27%. With a cold winter ahead bringing higher energy bills, a high-performance roof delivers both immediate comfort and long-term savings for veteran families.
“Thank you so much for supporting our amazing Veterans. GAF is proud to support Coastal in this Roof for Heroes event,” said Lisa Kingsley, GAF New England Regional Sales Director.
“Reaching our 5th Roof for Heroes donation is a meaningful achievement for our team,” said Vanderbilt. “Each veteran we help represents a life changed and a family protected. We're honored to continue this mission and look forward to supporting more veterans in the years ahead.”
Local officials also praised the initiative. Stephen Adelman, Chief Warrant Officer 2 (Retired) and Veterans Service Officer for the Town of Middleborough, stated, “We can't thank Coastal Windows & Exteriors enough for honoring those who served with a free roof…there is no better feeling than helping veterans in need. The town and veterans applaud your company for its compassion and commitment to helping veterans!” Jay McGrail, Town Manager of Middleborough, added, “The town of Middleborough is grateful to Coastal Windows & Exteriors to provide this roof for Lenny, a deserving Vietnam veteran and Middleborough resident.” State Representative Norman Orrall and State Senator Kelly Dooner also expressed their support, with Senator Dooner noting, “Our veterans deserve to feel safe and secure in their own homes. The Roof for Heroes program is a meaningful example of a community honoring service with action.”
CWE earned the Minuteman Service Award in 2022 for outstanding dedication to supporting active-duty military personnel and veterans. As an SBA award recipient for exceptional community service, the company offers a $750 additional discount on top of any current promotion for all military personnel, plus up to 20 years of financing based on credit approval.
“You protect our country, we protect your home,” Vanderbilt added. “That's the foundation of our Roof for Heroes program. We believe actions speak louder than words, and this is our way of demonstrating gratitude to the men and women who have sacrificed for our freedom.”
For more information about Coastal Windows & Exteriors and their programs, visit https://mycoastalwindows.com.
